DIMAPUR: The School Education Department on Thursday felicitated 56 meritorious students belonging to indigenous Scheduled Tribes of Nagaland under the Chief Minister’s Meritorious Students Fellowship (CMMSF) for their outstanding performance in the HSLC Examination 2026 at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima.
According to a DIPR report, advisor for School Education, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, graced the occasion as the special guest and congratulated the awardees for their academic achievements. He encouraged the students to continue striving for excellence with dedication, perseverance and integrity, while reminding them to use their knowledge and talents in the service of society and the State. He noted that the 56 achievers had distinguished themselves through hard work and perseverance, urging them to remain humble, remember their roots and contribute positively to society.
Highlighting the gender composition of the awardees, Dr. Yhome pointed out that 43 were girls and 13 were boys, lauding the increasing number of girls excelling academically in recent years.
He further encouraged the students to make the most of opportunities in the digital age, aspire higher and continue striving for excellence. He expressed confidence that the achievers, as part of the rich legacy of school education in Nagaland, would continue to bring pride to the State.
In his welcome address, chairperson Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE), Rangumbuing Nsarangbe, described the CMMSF as a testament to the Chief Minister’s commitment to promoting academic excellence. He explained that the fellowship not only recognizes meritorious students with certificates but also provides financial assistance for five years, subject to the condition that beneficiaries must secure at least 80 percent marks annually to remain eligible. He also acknowledged the invaluable role of parents and families in the success of the students.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Benchumo Tungoe (Rank 3, Isaiah Ability Higher Secondary School, Wokha) and Imnayangla (Rank 8, St. Mary’s Residential School, Alichen) shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for the recognition and encouragement extended through the CMMSF.
The programme began with a thanksgiving prayer by pastor Sumi Baptist Church Kohima, Khekavi K. Yeptho, followed by special songs presented by Baptist School, Botsa and Government Higher Secondary School, Kigwema. Awards and certificates were presented to the 56 meritorious students by Dr. Yhome. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by State Mission Director, Samagra Shiksha, Nagaland, L. Jamithung Lotha.
